Japan Design Committee is pleased to present the 797th Design Gallery 1953 exhibition, “Tracing Design Gallery 1964–2026 via DM: The Annals of the Japan Design Committee: Manifesting the Times and Looking Further Ahead”
This exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of Matsuya Ginza’s opening by showcasing all direct mail pieces from Design Gallery 1953 in one place. Since its founding in 1964, the gallery has hosted nearly 800 exhibitions. The vast collection of DMs announcing these events transcends mere invitations, serving as a graphic archive that vividly captures the spirit of each era.
Through approximately 800 designs covering the walls, we revisit the history of design that Matsuya and the Japan Design Committee have continuously promoted for over half a century. Also on display are comments from current committee members reflecting on the design policy and the journey of the Design Gallery. Witness the trail of activities carved out in Ginza and the outlook for the future.
Message from Motomi Kawakami, Exhibition Derector
The Japan Design Committee has been pursuing activities to deepen understanding and awareness of design under a lofty vision for 73 years. While its membership has changed over time, we have continued our partnership with Matsuya, selecting products for the “Design Collection,” and operating “Special Exhibitions” and the “Design Gallery.” This time, as the culmination of Matsuya Ginza’s 100th anniversary celebrations, we trace the path leading to tomorrow, focusing on the direct mailings for the Design Gallery exhibitions, which have now reached approximately 800 installments. Since our founding, we have prided ourselves on operating with independence as our guiding principle, gathering on a volunteer basis. We consider ourselves a unique assembly of professionals from diverse design genres, characterized by truly varied yet balanced perspectives. We remain committed to conveying the beauty and joy of design to people through our diverse projects and operations. Alongside the DM, we also present words from our current members. We would be honored if you would take a look.
Exhibition Outline
- Title: The 797th Design Gallery 1953 Exhibition
“Tracing Design Gallery 1964–2026 via DM: The Annals of the Japan Design Committee: Manifesting the Times and Looking Further Ahead” - Dates: February 18 (Wed), 2026— April 13 (Mon), 11:00 a.m.− 8:00 p.m.; closing at 5:00 p.m. on the last day ; free admission
- Venue: Matsuya Ginza 7th floor, Design Gallery 1953
- Organizer: Japan Design Committee
- Supported by: Matsuya Co., Ltd.
- Venue Design Supervision & Graphics: AWATSUJI design
- Exhibition Director:：Misa Awatsuji, Motomi Kawakami
Please refer to the Matsuya Ginza website for the opening hours and other information.
